As evidenced by the disastrous impact from the recent Cyclone Gabrielle, Hawke’s Bay (including it’s wine growing community) is seeing significant impacts from increased weather variability. A severe drought in 2020 followed by difficult (particularly wet) growing seasons through 2022 and 2023 have brought discussions on climate change further to the forefront.
Climate Change in Bordeaux, the good, the bad and the hopeful
The hot, dry 2022 summer with its dangerously close forest fires brought climate change into sharp focus for Bordeaux. However, in the recent primeur tastings, the majority of 2022 wines showed extremely well, with even some wine makers expressing surprise (and definitely relief) over quality.
Future wine – a culture in transition
Frequent weather extremes such as late frosts, hot spells, extreme drought and heavy rain are increasingly endangering winegrowing. What does future winegrowing in Rheinhessen look like?